SuppoRTT
Returning to work after maternity leave
Whether you're returning to the Trust or joining us for the first time, we're really glad to have you with us. Returning to work after maternity, adoption or shared parental leave can feel like a big transition. You might be excited, tired, emotional, unsure, or all of the above. Whatever you're feeling, you're not alone.
This page brings together the information, support and practical arrangements available to help you settle back in, including guidance for colleagues who are breastfeeding or expressing milk at work.
Our aim is simple: to help you return feeling supported, informed and confident.
There's guidance, examples, and advice in the Returning from maternity leave booklet.
Adjusting Back to Work
Adjusting to life at work while caring for a baby can be a significant change. You may find that you or your baby are more emotional or unsettled in the first weeks — this is completely normal and usually eases over time.
Remember:
- There is no right or wrong way to navigate this period
- You don't have to do the same thing every day - routines will develop naturally
- It's absolutely okay to say you're finding things difficult - support is available
If you need help, please reach out to your line manager, HR, Occupational Health or our peer support teams.
Talking With Your Manager
Before you return, you'll have the opportunity to discuss:
- Your confirmed return date
- Any annual leave you wish to take before or after returning
- Flexible working options or temporary adjustments
- Your intention to continue breastfeeding or expressing
- Any risks or adjustments needed (a risk assessment will be completed)
If you plan to continue breastfeeding on your return, please let your manager know in writing. A template letter is available in the guidance booklet.
Breastfeeding and Expressing at Work
Returning to work does not mean you need to stop breastfeeding. We are committed to supporting colleagues who wish to continue.
Spaces to Express Milk
You can use:
The Emmeline Room (C10)
A dedicated, private expressing room near the Lansdown Restaurant. Open 24/7 via swipe access. The room has a microwave which can be used to sterilise pumps and other equipment. Please email ruh-tr.AccessControl@nhs.net and request access to the Milk Expressing Room
Your Department
A clean, private space such as an office may be suitable. It should not be a toilet, cupboard or utility area.
Education Centre
A designated expressing room is available. Booking is recommended via ruh-tr.educationcentre@nhs.net
Things to Consider When Planning Your Return
It may help to think about:
- Breaks - whether you need shorter, more frequent breaks to express
- Shift pattern adjustments - temporary or permanent changes
- Where you'll express and store milk
- Any equipment you may need, such as a hands-free pump
- Practicalities, such as spare uniform in case of leaks
- How your team can support you
Your manager can help problem-solve and agree arrangements tailored to your role and service needs.
Storing Breast Milk
You can store expressed milk:
- In a staff fridge in a sealed, clearly labelled container
- In a loan mini-fridge : a limited number are available for colleagues returning to work and can be borrowed for at least six weeks. Please complete this form to loan mini fridge
Please ensure any pump you bring from home is in good working order. The Emmeline Room has a microwave which can be used to sterilise pumps and other equipment.
Further Support
You can access guidance, reassurance and practical advice from:
Peer supporters
Are a network of peer supporters who can offer informal advice and guidance.
Please email ashleigh.wiltshire@nhs.net to learn more.
Infant feeding team
Provide specialist care and 1:1 support for parents navigating complex infant feeding challenges. They can be contacted at ruh-tr.infantfeeding@nhs.net
SuppoRTT
A national programme which was designed to improve the experience for all postgraduate doctors who have been out of training for a period of 3 months or more.
You can contact the team at ruh-tr.supporttchampion@nhs.net
Occupational Health
Can advise on a range of health topics. You can reach them on ext 6992
or email ruh-tr.ohadmin@nhs.net
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Provide confidential support, signposting and wellbeing interventions. You can reach them on ext 5960 or ruh-tr.EAP@nhs.net
Additionally, you can find a wealth of resources at Support for parents - Baby Friendly Initiative (unicef.org.uk)
Continuing to breastfeed when you return to work - Maternity Action
National Helplines
Available during the week and often out-of-hours and on weekends to support infant feeding countrywide.
Please check call charges before using.
| Association of Breastfeeding Mothers | 0300 330 5453 | 9:30am to 10:30pm | |
| La Leche Helpline | 0345 120 2918 | 8am to 11pm | |
| National Breastfeeding Helpline | 0300 100 0212 | 9:30am to 9:30pm / 7 days a week | |
| National Breastfeeding Helpline Live Chat Support | |||
| NCT National Helpline | 0300 330 0700 | 8am to Midnight | |
| Breastfeeding Network |